Description
Apply knowledge of pathology and laboratory science to process tissue specimens and prepare high-quality histological slides for microscopic examination and diagnosis. Evaluate and optimize methods, ensure quality control and regulatory compliance, and troubleshoot instruments and workflows. May assist with research and training.
- • Maintain records of preventive maintenance and instrument performance per schedule and regulations.
- • Compile and deliver materials for pathologists, including requisitions, blocks, and slides.
- • Cut tissue sections for microscopic examination using microtomes and cryostats.
- • Embed tissue specimens in paraffin or infiltrate with wax.
- • Review slides microscopically to verify tissue preparation and staining quality.
- • Recognize tissue structures and cellular components relevant to diagnosis and treatment.
- • Operate laboratory equipment for fixation, dehydration, decalcification, and tissue processing.
- • Perform immunohistochemistry, special stains, and immunofluorescence per protocols.
- • Perform or support electron microscopy or mass spectrometry workflows when required.
- • Execute tests and prioritize workloads based on pathologist or physician instructions.
- • Prepare and handle tissue specimens for diagnostic, teaching, or research purposes.
- • Prepare reagents, dilutions, and stains according to SOPs; perform QC and maintain logs.
- • Troubleshoot and resolve issues with microscopes, microtomes, immunostainers, processors, embedding centers, and water baths.
- • Stain tissue specimens (e.g., H&E and special stains) and evaluate results for adequacy.
- • Supervise or assist in supervising histology laboratory activities.
- • Teach and train students, residents, or staff in histology techniques and safety.
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Healthcare & Human Services
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
